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Special Needs & Adapted Programs

The City of Markham welcomes and encourages all residents to participate in our recreation programs. Every effort will be made for the child or adult to participate in an integrated or adapted program. It is important to consider the participant’s ability when registering. If a participant requires a care giver or volunteer to assist them, one will be admitted to the service free of charge.

What's New?

Volt Hockey Scores in Markham!

The City of Markham and Variety Toronto are partnering to pilot Para Volt Hockey for young children with varied abilities, this July.

Volt Hockey is an emerging form of hockey. It is a variation of floor hockey using specially designed chairs for youth with upper mobility. This sport creates a new opportunity, for kids with a disability, to engage in a social, team-based environment. It is just starting in Canada, and played by other 50 teams in Denmark, Germany, Norway, Sweden and the USA.

Mount Joy Community Centre is hosting Volt Hockey this summer!

Register today! Call Chris Murdoch at 416-699-7167 extension 255.

How do I know if support is required?

Consider the following when registering to help you decide if support is required:

Extra support is required at school in the classroom

A physical, development, and or learning disability exists

Extra support is needed at home for basic care

Participant is supported by an agency

Participant has a safety plan with their educational institution

There may be behaviours that need to be managed, ex: biting, pinching, slapping, running etc.

Participants will be required to complete a Special Needs Request Form to assist with integration. This will help our instructors adapt the program, and provide the best possible service. You are also welcome to provide your own support person. The following is a list of suggestions

A support worker that is provided by a social service agency or the family

A family member or friend

A caregiver that is familiar with the participants needs and abilities, such as a nanny or babysitter

Volunteers

When requesting a volunteer through the City of Markham, please be aware of the following:

A volunteer may not always be available during the day and time you have selected

Volunteers are 14 and 15 years of age

Volunteers do not support individuals with challenging behaviours

Volunteers cannot provide lifts and transfers

Volunteers cannot be alone with a participant.

Volunteers can:

Provide encouragement during participation

Break down instructions and program rules

Repeat skills

Be a buddy

Provide a safe environment

Inclusion Support Staff:

Caregivers can hire paid support for one to one assistance. These individuals will be 16 years of age and older, have their Standard First Aid, experience working with various needs, and are High Five certified. Please note that there is a fee for this service.

How to Request a Volunteer for Recreation Programs:

You will need to request a volunteer by calling the Community Centre where you will be participating. Please provide us with at least 2 weeks notice.